Breast Procedures
- Breast Augmentation
- Breast Reconstruction
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
- Breast Reduction
- Male Breast Reduction (Gyencomastia)
Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation is the surgical placement of breast implant to increase fullness and projection of the breast or to improve symmetry of the breasts. Clinically referred to as augmentation mammaplasty, the procedure is used cosmetically to:
- Enlarge a naturally small breast, most commonly the result of heredity
- Restore breast volume lost following pregnancy, as a result of breast-feeding or due to weight loss
- Achieve better symmetry when breasts are moderately disproportionate is size and shape
A woman who is motivated by her own personal desire to enhance breast contour is most likely to be satisfied with the results of breast augmentation surgery. Good candidates are defined as:
- Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing
- Non-smokers
- Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for improving their body image
Breast Reconstruction
Most mastectomy patients are medically appropriate for reconstruction, many at the same time that the breast is removed. The best candidates are women whose cancer, as far as can be determined, seems to have been eliminated by mastectomy.
Still, there are legitimate reasons to wait. Many women aren't comfortable weighing all the options while they're struggling to cope with a diagnosis of cancer. Others simply don't want to have any more surgery than is absolutely necessary. Some patients may be advised by their surgeons to wait, particularly if the breast is being rebuilt in a more complicated procedure using flaps of skin and underlying tissue. Women with other health conditions, such as obesity, high blood pressure, or smoking, may also be advised to wait.
In any case, being informed of your reconstruction options before surgery can help you prepare for a mastectomy with a more positive outlook for the future.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
There are many factors that can effect the breast to lose volume and sag below their natural position. Mastopexy or breast-lift surgery can restore the breasts to a more natural shape and position on the chest. This can be accomplished through a variety of approaches depending on the size and shape of each woman's breast.
Breast Reduction
If you are a woman with overly large breasts, breast reduction surgery can be a tremendously life-enhancing option. Having the procedure will give you far more than just smaller, firmer breasts. You'll also get significant relief from many physical and emotional discomforts, a new sense of freedom in your exercise and physical activity, and the ability to wear a greater variety of clothing styles.
Breast reduction, also called reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure that removes excess breast tissue and skin, making your breasts more proportional to the rest of your body. The areola ( the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple) may be reduced and reposition as well.
You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have any of the following conditions:
- back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
- heavy, sagging breasts with very low nipples and areolas
- breasts that are too large in proportion to your body frame
- skin irritation beneath the breasts
- indentations in your shoulders caused by tight bra straps
- restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts
- one breast that is much larger than the other